Dominik Szoboszlai says he stayed in frequent contact with Mohamed Salah during the Africa Cup of Nations but declined to comment on questions surrounding the Liverpool forward’s future at the club.
Liverpool are expected to confirm on Tuesday whether Salah will be included in the squad for Wednesday’s Champions League trip to Marseille, following his return from international duty.
Salah situation remains unresolved
Salah’s status has been under scrutiny since he gave a candid interview suggesting his relationship with head coach Arne Slot had deteriorated, as reported by BBC Sport. Despite the attention around those remarks, Szoboszlai made clear he would not offer insight into internal discussions.
“That’s between me and him,” the Hungary midfielder said. “He will come back and then we keep on going. It’s the decision between the manager and the club.”
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While careful not to speculate, Szoboszlai confirmed the two players remained in close contact during Salah’s time away with Egypt.
“To be honest, almost every day,” he said. “We speak about everything. I’m following him, I guess he is following me. We talk a lot.”
Burnley draw highlights attacking challenge
Slot has already said he would welcome Salah’s return, and Liverpool’s recent struggles in front of goal have reinforced that view. In Saturday’s 1–1 draw with Burnley, Liverpool registered 32 shots and an expected goals figure of 2.95 but scored only once, according to BBC Sport. Szoboszlai also missed a penalty.
“That’s the first time we have played really well against a low block and created a lot of chances,” he said.
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Szoboszlai expects a different type of test in Marseille, with the French side likely to play out from the back rather than defend deep.
“We had loads of guys in the box, we had crosses and shots,” he said. “That is what we have to aim for against Marseille, but they don’t have a low block.”
Responding to criticism and looking ahead
The midfielder has faced criticism during a difficult week, including from Barnsley manager Conor Hourihane after a risky back-heel attempt led to a goal during Liverpool’s FA Cup tie.
“I made a mistake against Barnsley but I have to make it clear it wasn’t disrespectful,” Szoboszlai said, adding that he would not change his approach based on the opponent.
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Despite missing two penalties this season hitting the post once and the crossbar once Szoboszlai said he remains confident when stepping up, particularly when Salah is absent.
“The next one is in,” he said. “If he comes back, he is the first penalty taker.”
Szoboszlai also confirmed that discussions are ongoing over a new contract, with his current deal running until 2028.
Sources: BBC Sport
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